When poisoning beliefs deviate from science
The liver is the largest internal organ, performing more than 500 vital functions, from metabolizing nutrients, producing protein to neutralizing and excreting toxins. Therefore, many people believe that regular "liver detoxification" will help the body be healthy, relieved and prevent disease.
In fact, many people are applying oral liver detoxification methods on social networks such as prolonged fasting, drinking lemon juice, vegetable juice instead of main meals, or using functional foods of unknown origin. These methods, if uninformed and abused, can be more harmful than beneficial.
Consequences of improper liver detoxification
According to Dr. Joseph Murray, a digestive expert at Mayo Clinic (USA), many liver detoxification regimens are strictly restrictive, causing the body to lack protein, vitamins and essential minerals. “The liver does not need extreme detoxification measures. When malnourished, the liver even functions less effectively,” Mr. Murray warned.
Prolonged fasting or drinking too much water for a short time can cause electrolyte imbalance, leading to fatigue, low blood pressure, and heart rate disorders. Some people experience bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or indigestion due to disrupted digestive systems.
More worryingly, many "liver detoxifying" products in the form of herbs or quality-controlled supplements may contain liver-toxic active ingredients. Medical reports show that there are many cases of hepatitis, increased liver enzymes, and even liver failure related to the long-term use of these products.
The liver inherently has a self-cleaning mechanism
Experts emphasize that the liver is an organ that can self-detoxify very effectively through a complex enzyme system. Instead of detoxifying, proper liver support is necessary.
According to Dr. Robert Shmerling, a medical lecturer at Harvard Medical School (USA), when signs such as prolonged fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal distension or pain in the right lower rib area appear, patients need to see a doctor early. “Self-detoxifying the liver does not help solve the underlying pathology but can cover up symptoms, making the disease worse,” Mr. Shmerling said.
Protecting the liver with a scientific lifestyle
To improve liver health, experts recommend maintaining regular physical activity to reduce fat accumulation in the liver. The diet should prioritize green vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts; limit processed foods, added sugar and absolutely avoid alcohol abuse.
Drinking enough 1.5 - 2 liters of water per day helps the liver and kidneys eliminate metabolic products more effectively. Some medicinal herbs such as star apple and turmeric are recognized to have a liver-supporting role thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but should only be used when there is medical advice, not considered as an alternative detoxification measure.
Incorrect liver detoxification does not help you become healthier, but can push the liver into the risk of injury. With this organ silently carrying life, the safest option is still to live in moderation and rely on scientific medicine.
